Purchasing/Materials Controller

Purchasing and Materials Controller

Days

£40-45,000

This role requires someone who can be creative and proactive in managing the challenges of sourcing and delivering materials for low-volume runs, as opposed to high-volume, mass production environments. You will work closely with both internal teams and external suppliers to ensure materials are available on time and meet the specific needs of each project.Key Responsibilities:

• Material Sourcing and Procurement:* Identify and source high-quality materials that align with the specific needs of low-volume, bespoke sheet metalwork projects, ensuring they meet project specifications and customer requirements.* Negotiate with suppliers to secure favorable terms, competitive pricing, and timely deliveries, focusing on low-volume, custom production rather than mass production setups.* Manage relationships with specialised suppliers to ensure the consistent availability of niche materials required for custom and prototype work.* Inventory Management:* Maintain effective inventory control to ensure materials are available without overstocking or tying up excess capital, considering the low-volume nature of the production.* Implement systems to track material usage and reorder levels, minimising waste and ensuring critical materials are always on hand when required by production.* Coordinate with production teams to assess and forecast material needs for upcoming projects.* Production Support and Coordination:* Work closely with the production team to understand project requirements, ensuring that the correct materials are available for each project stage.* Monitor production schedules and ensure materials are delivered on time to avoid production delays, adapting to the dynamic needs of low-volume runs and custom builds.* Address any last-minute material shortages, resolving issues quickly to maintain production flow.* Supplier and Vendor Management:* Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors, ensuring clear communication regarding material specifications, delivery schedules, and quality standards.* Evaluate supplier performance regularly to ensure consistency in quality, reliability, and service.* Continuously seek out new suppliers and sources of materials to improve cost-effectiveness and quality for low-volume projects.* Cost Control and Budget Management:* Ensure that all purchasingactivities are completed within the budget, balancing cost-effectiveness with the high-quality standards required for low-volume, customised production.* Track and report on material costs and any deviations from the budget, identifying cost-saving opportunities where appropriate.* Work with management to implement processes that optimise material procurement and reduce unnecessary spending.* Quality Control:* Ensure materials received meet the required quality standards and specifications for each project.* Work closely with the quality control team to address any material-related issues, ensuring that the final product meets client expectations.* Oversee material inspections and take corrective actions for any defects or discrepancies in materials.* Process Improvement:* Continuously review and improve material procurement and inventory control processes, developing strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce lead times, and minimise waste.* Contribute ideas to improve the overall material flow, supplier relationships, and the management of low-volume production schedules.Key Requirements:* Experience: Proven experience in purchasing, materials control, or supply chain management, specifically in low-volume manufacturing, custom fabrication, or prototype work within the sheet metalworking industry.* Supply Chain Knowledge: In-depth understanding of supply chain management and the specific challenges associated with low-volume production, including procurement, lead times, and material management for custom projects.* Problem-Solving: Ability to think creatively and proactively to source materials and solve problems related to inventory, procurement, and production challenges.* Attention to Detail: Strong organisational skills and attention to detail, particularly in managing materials for low-volume, custom production.* Communication: Excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with internal teams, suppliers, and external stakeholders.* Computer Skills: Proficiency in using inventory management software (Sage), internal system, and Microsoft Office applications.* Cost Management: Experience working with budgets and cost control, especially within a low-volume production environment where the ability to manage resources efficiently is key.Ideal Candidate:* A hands-on professional who understands the complexities of low-volume, high-precision production and the supply chain challenges that come with it.* Someone who is resourceful, adaptable, and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining focus on quality and deadlines.* A proactive problem solver with experience in sourcing materials for custom, low-volume production and the ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and production teams.

If you are interested in this role please contact Kathryn.van- or call